(KMAland) — A recent poll shows that these are the best of times and the worst of times to be a Missourian.
The Missouri Health Foundation's “Speak up MO” poll found that while residents value deep connections to their community, they also struggle with major challenges, including the cost of living, access to adequate health care and drug and alcohol use in Missouri.
Sheldon Weisgrau, vice president of health policy and advocacy at MFH, said the poll confirms that health care costs are indeed the underlying issue.
“And by addressing that issue, Missourians' lives can improve in many other areas. If we can reduce health care costs, people can spend money on other things,” he said.
Many Missourians view their state favorably, recommending it as a great place to live and praising it as a safe and comfortable place to raise children, among other things.
The poll found strong demographic differences in concerns. More than 80% of black Missourians cited crime and gun violence as their main problem. White respondents were primarily concerned about the rising cost of living and health care. Weisgrau noted that views on climate change also varied.
“Thirty-nine percent of respondents said climate change is not a very serious problem, but almost two-thirds of Democrats said it is an extremely or very serious problem, compared with just 8% of Republicans,” he continued.
He stressed that it is important, especially in this election year, that elected officials pay close attention to the concerns of their constituents in order to address pressing issues that affect their everyday lives.
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